The Sherwin-Williams General Industrial Coatings division announced the launch of SHIFT, the latest industrial color trend forecast for the Colormix Foresight program. This report highlights 18 colors driving innovation in coatings and finishes, providing manufacturers and designers with actionable guidance to stay ahead of trends emerging over the next three to five years.
“SHIFT explores how color tells a story shaped by culture, emotion and the evolution of values,” says Kiki Redhead, Global Color, Material, Finish and Trend Manager at the Sherwin-Williams DesignHouse. “Our color experts combine research, analytics and industry expertise to uncover these narratives and identify a forward-looking vision of color’s role in the world around us.”
Program details
The Sherwin-Williams Colormix Foresight program is a research-driven initiative led by the company’s Trendsight Team. The program leverages global trend analysis, cultural insights and key drivers to identify future color directions. This forward-looking analysis serves as an educational and inspirational resource. It provides designers and manufacturers with data-backed insights that empower proactive decision-making.
Color longevity is important for brands and manufacturers with multi-year product development timelines. The SHIFT forecast supports both short-term refreshes and long-term product innovation, ensuring that color choices made today continue to feel intentional, relevant and meaningful into the future.
The Sherwin-Williams color team navigates external drivers — such as global environments, the human experience and a commitment to social equity — and translates how they are influencing design. SHIFT explores Mindset (deep-rooted beliefs and values), Mindstate (the emotional lens through which we experience the world) and Makeshift (where decision-making and action take place). The forecast’s narrative is supported by 18 carefully selected colors.
